So you’ve got the itch to write a song, but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry—you don’t need to play five instruments or be a poet to create music. Whether you’re driven by emotion, an idea, or just curiosity, writing a song is about expression. And like anything else, it gets easier the more you do it.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you write your first song.
1. Start with a Spark
Every song starts with a spark. It could be:
- A phrase that popped into your head
- A chord you played or a melody you hummed
- A strong feeling or memory
- A story you want to tell
Jot down anything that comes to mind. Don’t overthink it. Even a simple sentence like “I can’t sleep again” can become the seed of a powerful song.
2. Choose a Structure
Most popular songs follow familiar structures. A basic one to start with is:
Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus – Bridge – Chorus
- Verse: Moves the story along.
- Chorus: The emotional core and hook of the song.
- Bridge: A shift—musically or lyrically—that adds contrast.
You don’t have to follow this, but it helps create flow.
3. Write Lyrics from the Heart
Don’t try to sound clever. Don’t try to copy what’s trendy. Just be real. What do you want to say? Start by writing as if you’re talking to a friend. Then, shape it into lines that match the rhythm of your song.
Tips:
- Use simple language.
- Be specific. Details make lyrics relatable.
- Focus on one emotion or theme per song.
4. Add Melody (Even If You’re Not a Musician)
Can you hum a tune? That’s a melody! Start singing your lyrics in different ways and see what sounds natural. Record voice memos of your ideas—you’ll be surprised what you come up with.
If you play an instrument (like guitar or piano), play around with simple chords. If not, you can use free apps or software (like BandLab or GarageBand) to experiment.
5. Keep It Simple
Your first song doesn’t need to be perfect or complex. In fact, some of the best songs are incredibly simple—three chords and a clear message.
Don’t try to impress anyone. Just express something honest.
6. Finish It
It’s tempting to start and stop or wait for inspiration to strike again. But finishing your first song—no matter what—is a HUGE win. You’ll learn more from finishing one song than starting ten half-done ones.
7. Record a Demo (Optional, but Fun)
Once you’ve got your lyrics and melody, try recording a rough demo. Use your phone or a simple app. It doesn’t have to be studio quality. The goal is to hear how it sounds and feel proud of what you made.
Final Thoughts
Everyone starts somewhere. Your first song might feel awkward or messy—but that’s okay. What matters is you tried. And now that you’ve written one song… you can write another.
The more you create, the more you’ll find your voice.
So go for it. Your first song is waiting.